You are receiving this email because your organization is at one of the economic development tiers  with the Chamber of Commerce. As always, we encourage your comments and questions.

Welcome to February's update! Below is a snapshot of activities staff has been involved with since the last update...

A Message from Economic Development Director, Jim Klarich...

First, a BIG thank you to all of you who came out and supported this year's annual dinner. It’s amazing to see so many people who contribute to our community in one place at one time.

In spite of our past successes, we still have some pretty lofty ambitions for 2019. Developing the former Alpena Power Company site is one goal, advancing other building improvements downtown is another, and getting a deal done on the former Kmart building is yet another. But that's not all. The list is long, but we’re committed and we will persevere. When spring finally breaks our way and we can take our vehicles out of four wheel drive, we’ll see new developments taking shape all around town, the hospital will break ground on their $59 million dollar addition, the new jail, new terminal at the airport, the assisted living center on Johnson Street, the rehabilitation of Van Lare Hall at ACC, Northland Credit Union’s new headquarters, the addition at Crossroads Plaza, W.G. Benjey’s manufacturing facility, and the new dentist office at Diamond Point name just some of the projects you will see in the very near future.

Plan to see lots of construction in and around the region. It's going to be a very exciting 2019! Our role in each of these projects varies from very involved to less involved, but the work we do to continue to push the region forward goes beyond involvement with specific projects. We help pave the way for developments and will continue that work.

Our Newest Staff Member, Valerie Skorupski

You may have already met our newest addition to the team - Valerie Skorupski. Valerie is the Membership Director for the Chamber of Commerce. Her role consists of recruiting and retention, but also moving members up in tiers and educating members and non-members about our economic development and advocacy work. She has really hit the ground running and is working hard to meet our members, getting to know your businesses. She is scheduling meetings with our higher tier members and gathering valuable input from them. Reach out to her to welcome her, or wait to hear from her! Her email is [email protected]

One Final Comment

We are THRILLED with the support we are receiving this year from our membership. Several have moved up in the tier structure, stating they support the work we do and believe it is important to the vibrancy/health of the community. We appreciate all of your continued support. It helps us continue to grow our value/service to the community. THANK YOU!